The Riau Islands Police Chief Urges the Public to Stop Spreading SARA Issues

Daftarsbmptn.com – The spread of SARA (ethnicity, religion, race, and intergroup relations) issues is one of the major challenges facing Indonesian society, including in the Riau Islands Province (Kepri). The Riau Islands Police Chief, Inspector General Aris Budiman, called on all levels of society in the Riau Islands to work together to stop the spread of SARA issues that can disrupt unity and social harmony. This was conveyed at a gathering held at the Riau Islands Police Headquarters in Batam on Tuesday (January 26, 2026).

In his remarks, Police Chief Aris Budiman reminded that the Riau Islands, as a province comprising various ethnicities, religions, and cultures, is a miniature version of Indonesia’s rich diversity. Therefore, maintaining harmony among residents is crucial to creating a sense of security and comfort in daily life.

“The Riau Islands is a multicultural region, with diverse ethnicities, religions, and cultures. Of course, we must maintain harmony so that no one feels marginalized or discriminated against. One of the biggest threats to our social harmony is the spread of racial, ethnic, and intergroup issues, often spread through social media or everyday conversations,” said the Riau Islands Police Chief.

Spread of SARA Issues Breaks Unity

The Police Chief also stated that the spread of SARA issues can worsen relations between residents and trigger social conflict. He said that several recent cases are clear examples of how SARA issues can undermine regional peace. Therefore, he emphasized the need for cooperation between security forces, the government, and the community to address this problem.

“SARA issues are often used by certain individuals to incite tensions between residents. We must not allow this to escalate. The spread of false information or hoaxes will only increase unrest and hatred within the community. I urge everyone to be wise in using social media and to filter the information they receive,” said Police Chief Aris.

The Role of the Community in Maintaining Harmony

Furthermore, the Riau Islands Police Chief also emphasized the importance of the community’s active role in maintaining social harmony. The public, especially the younger generation, was urged not to be easily provoked by unverified issues. The public was also asked to report any information circulating that could cause divisions, including ethnicity, religion, race, and intergroup relations (SARA).

“If anyone finds information circulating that is disturbing or has racial or intergroup relations (SARA), please report it immediately to the authorities. We must not remain silent in the face of situations that could undermine the harmony we have long built. Security and peace are our shared responsibility,” he stressed.

Chief Aris also reminded that law enforcement against those spreading hoaxes and SARA issues will be impartial. The police will take firm action against any individual involved in spreading information that could undermine national unity.

Collaboration with Religious and Community Leaders

The Riau Islands Police Chief revealed that his team has also collaborated with religious leaders, youth, and community organizations in the Riau Islands to conduct outreach on the importance of maintaining unity and avoiding the spread of SARA issues. Through this activity, it is hoped that the public will gain a better understanding and comprehension of the negative impacts of the spread of SARA issues on social life in the Riau Islands.

“I invite religious leaders, youth, and all elements of society to work together to educate the public about the dangers of spreading SARA issues. We need to strengthen communication between residents so that they are not easily divided by irresponsible provocation,” he explained.

The Role of the National Police in Maintaining Social Security

The Riau Islands Police Chief emphasized that the police are also continuously striving to improve public security and order and prevent potential social conflict. One step being taken is strengthening security patrols in vulnerable areas that often become hotspots for the spread of SARA issues.

“The National Police will continue to increase patrols in vulnerable areas and educate the public about the importance of maintaining order and security. We will continue to work together with the government and the community to create a safe and harmonious Riau Islands,” said the Police Chief.

Hopes for the Future

In closing the event, the Riau Islands Police Chief expressed his hope that the Riau Islands community will become more mature in addressing differences and will not be influenced by issues that could disrupt harmony. He invited the entire community to work together to build a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Riau Islands.

“A safe and peaceful Riau Islands is our shared dream. Let us maintain this harmony wisely and with mutual respect. We must combat the spread of racial, ethnic, and inter-group issues so that Riau Islands remains an exemplary region of peace and unity,” concluded the Riau Islands Police Chief.